The Debate Between Dual Immersion and English-Alone Instruction: Insights From Scientific Studies

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards investing in bilingual education programs across more schools and states. However, ensuring equitable access for English learners is crucial, as an increasing number of privileged families are seeking these programs.

This shift in education comes amidst a controversial federal budget proposal, which calls for the elimination of federal dollars dedicated to English learners, a move that could potentially undermine the progress made in bilingual education. The White House's proposal marks a departure from previous federal encouragement of bilingualism.

Research studies have consistently found positive academic outcomes for English learners in bilingual programs. These students are more likely to reclassify out of an English-learner status, although it may take a little longer on average for these students to be reclassified. Furthermore, these students have shown stronger academic outcomes in language arts, math, social studies, and science. Additionally, bilingual education programs have been found to benefit English learners in terms of graduation rates, with these students more likely to graduate and graduate with a regular diploma.

However, not all states require a specific teaching endorsement for teachers working with English learners. A 2020 study by Chris Montecillo Leider found that many states lack a core requirement like a sheltered English-immersion endorsement for all teachers. This lack of standardization could potentially impact the quality of education provided to English learners in these states.

As districts consider opening more bilingual programs, it is essential that these programs are accessible to multilingual students, including students with disabilities and newcomer immigrants. It is also crucial for states to consider teacher-training requirements and expectations for all teachers working with English learners, and especially those working in bilingual programs.

The landscape of bilingual education programs varies widely, according to Ilana Umansky, an associate professor at the University of Oregon. These programs differ in terms of who can enroll, duration, balance between languages, teachers, and long-term goals.

In an effort to promote bilingualism in schools with multiple languages, researchers suggest relying on community liaisons, stocking up on bilingual books, and allowing translanguaging in classrooms. Despite the benefits of bilingual education, the vast majority of multilingual learners in schools are still in English-only educational programs.

The Trump administration's stance on bilingual education was clear with the signing of an executive order declaring English the nation's official language in March 2017. The U.S. Department of Justice later released guidance for federal agencies on implementing the order, emphasizing English-language education and assimilation.

However, recent research studies on bilingual programs have drawn on methods that allow for causal inference, meaning researchers can identify the direct effects of being in a bilingual program compared with having not been in a bilingual program. These studies consistently find that, on average, bilingual education programs benefit English-learner students more than English-only programs in terms of academic outcomes, graduation rates, reclassification out of English-learner status, self-confidence, and family engagement.

Despite the political debates surrounding bilingual education, the evidence supporting its benefits continues to grow. As more schools and states invest in these programs, it is crucial to ensure equitable access, high-quality teaching, and a focus on the unique needs of English learners.

The Debate Between Dual Immersion and English-Alone Instruction: Insights From Scientific Studies